In its seventh year, bird watchers of all ages and experience are welcomed to attend the Birding Extravaganza, a series of free birding excursions supported by four conservation organizations in Midcoast Maine. Merrymeeting Audubon (MMA), Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust (BTLT), Harpswell Heritage Land Trust (HHLT) and Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) have planned an array of experiences to spot and study a wide range of birds and to learn from expert birders.

“I love the annual Spring Birding Extravaganza, now in its seventh year,” says Angela Twitchell, executive director of the Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust. “It is a wonderful way for the community to embrace the change of seasons and welcome our feathered friends back from their winter homes. It is also a great way to introduce people to all three land trusts’ trails. Our members love the opportunity to get to know some of the wonderful places that have been protected by our neighbors.”

The protected areas of the three land trusts cover 13 towns in a region known as a global hot spot for migratory birds.

The birding events kick off with a film screening at Frontier, 14 Maine Street, Brunswick April 25, 7-9 p.m. of “The Messenger,” which explores the uncertain fate of songbirds. Lectures introduce participants to the Maine Bird Atlas and research being done on the movement of Great Blue Herons. A variety of outdoor excursions will focus on bird behavior and identification. Finally, the series ends with a birding outing designed especially for kids and families.

All events are free and open to the public, though some require advance registration.

For more information, visit the websites of the four conservation organizations:

Kennebec Estuary Land Trust: www.kennebecestuary.org

Harpswell Heritage Land Trust: www.hhltmaine.org

Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust: www.btlt.org

Merrymeeting Audubon: www.maineaudubon.org/merrymeeting